A Bird is a Bird
Woodpeckers, penguins, flamingos, pigeons…with such a variety of birds in the world, what are the characteristics that make them what they are? This beautifully illustrated, nonfiction book describes the common characteristics that make “a bird a bird,” while at the same time showcases their unique differences. Whether tall or small, fancy or plain, all birds have beaks, wings, and feathers. The author uses eye-catching illustrations and accessible text to share a little bit about each characteristic and to point out that, while other animals might share a characteristic or two, only a bird has them all. This book will engage both adults and children. Bird lovers and book lovers alike will flock together to choose this book!
Pennsylvania Center for the Book Awards
Book Activities & Discussion Ideas
Children will enjoy playing a guessing game with characteristics. Ask a child to place a favorite object in a “mystery bag.” An adult can help a child develop three clues about the object. Prompt children to use clues such as color, shape, use, texture, and weight. The child can reveal the clues to another classmate or family member one at a time. Is anyone able to guess the object based on the characteristics?
Families can use their own neighborhoods and environments to do a bird study. Prepare adults to lead this nature expedition by gathering easy-to-use bird guides from the local library. As adults peruse these guides looking for familiar birds, create a master list of birds common to the area. Then use the guides to identify characteristics, such as markings and coloring, shapes, beaks, sounds, types of nests, and seasonal activities. Ask adults to take notes on this information. As a follow-up to the discussion, encourage adults to take their children on a bird identification walk and to create a picture of one of the birds they spied. Adults can assist children in drawing and labeling these creations. If bulletin board space is available, the family drawings could be incorporated into a neighborhood collage.